→ Onboard Features Archives - Balance Catamarans

Balance Wins Again: Atlantic Victories for Catalyst & Eliza Jane

Bianca — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:01:37 +0000

At Balance Catamarans, performance isn’t just a promise—it’s a proven reality. This past week, two of our performance bluewater catamarans left their mark on the Atlantic, finishing first in two separate ocean crossings.

Catalyst Crushes the ARC Rally

Congratulations to Catalyst, a Balance 526, and her owner David, for an incredible performance in the World Cruising Club’s ARC Europe rally from Bermuda to the Azores. Catalyst was first to finish among all boats, first multihull across the line, and first in Multihull Division A—a clean sweep! The crossing was completed in just eight days, an impressive feat by any standard and a testament to the speed, balance, and seaworthiness of the 526.

You can learn more about the ARC Europe rally here: ARC Europe Event Page

Eliza Jane Leads the Salty Dawg Rally

Hot on the heels of Catalyst’s win, Eliza Jane, a Balance 482, finished first in the Salty Dawg Rally from Bermuda to the Azores just a few days later. Another fast, confident transatlantic passage that highlights why Balance owners trust their boats to go the distance—quickly, safely, and in style.

These wins aren’t just about being first—though we certainly love that. They’re about proving what Balance Catamarans are built for: fast, comfortable, owner-driven bluewater sailing. We’re incredibly proud of both crews and honored to see our designs leading the way across the world’s oceans.

Balance leads. Others follow.

Congratulations to Catalyst, Eliza Jane, and their intrepid owners!

The post Balance Wins Again: Atlantic Victories for Catalyst & Eliza Jane appeared first on Balance Catamarans .

Inside Look at the VersaDrive Hybrid System: Revolutionizing Sailing

Bianca — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 09:17:32 +0000

We’re proud to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the VersaDrive hybrid system—Balance Catamarans’ next leap forward in clean, efficient propulsion. Developed in partnership with Integrel Solutions, this cutting-edge technology is transforming the way sailors manage onboard energy and propulsion, delivering a smarter, quieter, and more sustainable experience on the water.

Main Dashboard: Power at Your Fingertips

Join Jason Crawford from Integrel Solutions as he walks us through the core of the system: the intuitive main dashboard. From here, sailors can monitor and manage every aspect of the hybrid drive, seamlessly switching between drive and generate modes on either hull.

The display provides real-time data on energy flow—how much power is being sent to or drawn from the batteries—ensuring you’re always in control and making informed decisions in any conditions.

Tailor Your Sailing Experience

With the VersaDrive system, flexibility is built in. You can set discharge and charge limits, fine-tune minimum speed thresholds, and toggle between engine and electric drive—allowing for a customized performance based on your cruising style or the day’s weather.

Dial back for a slower, quieter cruise or ramp it up when you need more thrust. The electric motors eliminate vibrations and engine noise, offering a whisper-quiet ride that redefines what luxury sailing feels like.

Performance Meets Longevity

Efficiency isn’t just about speed—it’s about preserving energy and extending the life of your systems. Like cruise control for your hybrid system, VersaDrive’s adjustable limits allow you to manage output carefully, ensuring slow, consistent battery charging and discharging. The result? Optimized motor performance and extended battery lifespan—essential for serious passagemakers.

Smarter Energy Management

Switching to “generate” mode demonstrates the hybrid system’s true potential. With a single engine powering both shafts while simultaneously recharging the batteries, the VersaDrive maximizes energy output without sacrificing range or fuel economy.

Whether you’re crossing oceans or anchoring off-grid for days, the system’s manual and automated controls give you the tools to match power usage to your needs—efficiently, quietly, and sustainably.

A Future Built on Innovation

At Integrel Solutions, ongoing development is central to the VersaDrive’s evolution. With every update, we’re refining how hybrid systems integrate into high-performance yachts—delivering even more intelligent power management without compromise.

Whether you’re new to hybrid propulsion or looking to deepen your understanding, we invite you to experience the future of sailing firsthand.

Together, Balance Catamarans & Integrel Solutions we’re charting a new course—one where performance, silent propulsion, and sustainability sail hand in hand.

The post Inside Look at the VersaDrive Hybrid System: Revolutionizing Sailing appeared first on Balance Catamarans .

The 6,000NM Balance Shakedown Cruise

Bianca — Mon, 05 May 2025 08:57:11 +0000

Written by Dean Paarman, Director of Multimedia & Community Enrichment

At the end of January 2025, Balance 526 Hull #29—Väster—splashed in St. Francis Bay alongside the very first Balance 580, Windigo. For proud new owners Kirk and Catherine Brunsson, it marked the start of their very own journey at the helm—after years as devoted members of the Balance community. With over 7,000 nautical miles under their belts crewing aboard other Balance catamarans, they were more than ready to take the helm of their own performance bluewater cruiser.

I have the incredible privilege of joining them—not just from the early days of build and commissioning, but through sea trials in Cape Town, and now, across the Atlantic Ocean. I’m writing this update from a quiet anchorage off the remote island of St. Helena, where we’re taking a short pause before setting sail again—this time toward Fernando de Noronha.

While I’ll be sharing a full-length video and story once I’m back on land and back in the editing chair, I wanted to give you a sneak peek of what this incredible passage has looked like so far.

Journey Highlights

A Viking Send-Off
Kirk and Catherine – strong Nordic ties – made their departure from Cape Town in true style by donning horned Viking helmets as Väster set sail. Spirits were high and the excitement was contagious.

Day 1: Easing In
After a light start with barely a breeze, we motored for about 6 hours at 6 knots in search of wind. Along the way, we enjoyed sunshine, gentle swells, and sightings of playful seals along South Africa’s West Coast. By the evening, the wind had filled in—and we were sailing under starry skies.

Despite the soft start, we logged over 215 nautical miles on Day 1.

Days 2–7: Flying
For six straight days, we had strong winds and a steady sea state. Even sailing conservatively—with a second reef and jib—we averaged over 220 nautical miles per day. At times, Väster surfed along effortlessly at speeds up to 20 knots, with a top speed of 23 knots recorded.

This performance was all the more impressive considering she was fully loaded with:

Four months of provisions
Full diesel and water tanks
Toys, gear, and spares
Catherine’s full professional music sound system

Even under load, Väster proved she’s not just a very comfortable liveaboard—she’s a true high-performance machine.

Days 8–9: Back to the Calm
As we neared St. Helena, the wind faded and the seas calmed. We motored the final three days and dropped anchor on Day 9. Waiting in the harbor was Windigo, the first Balance 580, and the two crews shared a celebratory dinner to mark the moment.

Life on St. Helena

This remote island is unlike any other—rugged, welcoming, and full of character. During our stay, we’ve taken care of routine boat maintenance, explored ashore, and even hosted a live music night at the St. Helena Yacht Club. Picture this: a full sound system set up under the stars, islanders and sailors gathered together, and music echoing across the mooring field. A surreal and unforgettable moment.

What’s Next?

We’ll be lifting anchor soon and heading west to Fernando de Noronha. The Atlantic is far from finished with us yet—and neither is this story.

I’ll be sharing the full video chronicle of Väster’s shakedown cruise once I’m back on dry land.

In the meantime, be sure to:

Subscribe to Balance Catamarans on YouTube
Sign up for the Balance Newsletter

There’s much more to come.

Fair winds,
Dean Paarman
Director of Multimedia & Community Enrichment

The post The 6,000NM Balance Shakedown Cruise appeared first on Balance Catamarans .

Why Hull Wrapping is a Smart Choice

Bianca — Fri, 02 May 2025 09:33:16 +0000

When it comes to giving your Balance Catamaran a fresh new look or added protection, hull wrapping is quickly becoming the go-to solution for savvy boat owners. But what exactly is a hull wrap, and why are more than half of yacht owners choosing it over traditional paint? Lets us explain.

What is a Hull Wrap?

A hull wrap is the application of a decorative or protective self-adhesive vinyl film to the hull of your yacht. This modern alternative to paint allows you to completely customize the appearance of your vessel while also offering a protective layer to help guard against wear and environmental damage including sun and salt.

Why Are So Many Owners Choosing Hull Wraps?

Currently, almost 60% of Balance owners are opting for vinyl wraps over paint. Here’s why:

Cooler Than Paint: Vinyl reflects more heat, keeping your vessel cooler, especially in warmer climates.
Fully Customisable: From bold graphics to subtle matte finishes that resemble painted finishes, vinyl offers unlimited design options.
Cost Effective: Vinyl wrapping is less expensive than a traditional paint job and does not compromise on quality.
Faster Turnaround: With a typical application timeline of just five days, owners are often on the water faster.
Easy to Repair: Solid colour wraps are particularly easy to match and repair if damaged. Tip: But a bit of extra wrap at the time of installation and store it so you can manage repairs on any small dings quickly.
Paint-Like Finish: When professionally installed, vinyl wraps look as good as a painted surface.

Protective Layer: Helps shield your hull from scratches, UV rays, and saltwater exposure.

Types of Vinyl Wraps

There are two primary types of vinyl wraps you can choose from:

Spot or One Color Wraps
These are pre-pigmented vinyls available in a wide range of finishes—gloss, matte, metallic, satin, and more. Perfect for a sleek, uniform look and simple maintenance.
Full Color or Digital Wraps
Digitally printed to your specifications, these wraps allow for custom artwork, logos, or patterns, making your catamarans a true one-of-a-kind.

What Should You Know Before Wrapping Your Yacht?

Surface Condition: The hull must be in good condition and properly prepped for best results.
Maintenance: Just like paint, vinyl requires regular cleaning and care to maintain its shine.
Durability: While not permanent, vinyl wraps are long-lasting and can be replaced or removed as needed.
Design Process: Work with an experienced graphic design agency to ensure your vision is properly executed. The design timeline varies so make sure you allow time to enjoy this fun process.
Application Timeline: From preparation to final inspection, expect about five days for full installation.

Who Does the Wrapping?

Professional installation is key to a flawless finish. ImageBuild are the experts trusted to apply wraps that not only look great but also stand the test of time.

Ready to Wrap Your Hull?

Whether you want a simple matte black finish or a full digital masterpiece, vinyl hull wrapping offers a flexible, affordable, and striking alternative to traditional paint.

The post Why Hull Wrapping is a Smart Choice appeared first on Balance Catamarans .

Embracing the Future: The 48-Volt Revolution in Balance Catamarans

Bianca — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 06:48:56 +0000

“Fleeting fads rise and fall across the generations of boats, while other yacht-design trends only seem to grow. Two recent enduring trends meet in an almost perfect paradox: the aim to reduce fossil-fuel emissions, and the inexorable increase of power-hungry appliances aboard our homes on the water. To crack that nut, today’s marine engineers are designing power systems adapted to those big loads—air conditioners, microwave ovens, induction stoves, water heaters, booming flat-screen home entertainment centers, and powerful windlasses and thrusters—while altogether avoiding an onboard generator, known commonly as a genset.”

Read what Maine Boats has to say: READ ARTICLE HERE

As innovations in the boating world advance, it is sometimes hard to separate the temporary from the breakthroughs that are here to stay. No question the move toward reducing fossil-fuel emissions is a reality but how to also simultaneously meet increasing power demands of modern onboard appliances? At Balance Catamarans, we are at the forefront of this shift with our adoption of the 48-volt system, marking a significant step toward more efficient and eco-friendly sailing.

Why 48 Volts?

Traditionally, boats have relied on 12-volt battery banks, but the benefits of switching to a 48-volt system are compelling. Higher voltage means lower amperage, which allows for smaller, lighter, and less expensive wiring. For example, a 1,200-watt windlass in a 12-volt system draws 100 amps, requiring thick and heavy 2/0 AWG wire. In a 48-volt system, the same windlass only draws 25 amps, allowing for much thinner 10 AWG wire. This translates to significant savings in both cost and weight across the entire electrical system.

Efficiency and Safety

The power equation Watts = Volts x Amps highlights that as voltage increases, amperage decreases. This reduction in amperage not only means smaller wires but also enhances the overall efficiency of the system. Higher voltage systems reduce heat loss and improve the efficiency of inverters and other electrical components.

Safety is another crucial factor. The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) deems DC systems below 50 volts safe for human contact. While 48 volts is high enough to reduce amperage and improve efficiency, it remains within the safe limit, ensuring that the system is safe to work on and around.

Practical Applications on Balance Catamarans

Our commitment to cutting-edge technology is exemplified by our use of 48-volt systems, particularly in combination with lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries, especially lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePo4) types, have proven to be safe, reliable, and incredibly efficient. They offer deeper discharge rates and faster charging times compared to traditional lead-acid batteries, significantly reducing engine running time for recharging.

Integrel Solutions, a leader in 48-volt charging systems, has been a key partner in our journey. Their innovative alternators, coupled with our high-capacity lithium-ion battery banks, ensure that our catamarans are equipped with robust and efficient power systems. These advancements allow for the seamless operation of power-hungry appliances like air conditioners, induction stoves, and powerful entertainment systems without the need for a noisy and polluting generator.

The Road Ahead

The marine industry is rapidly evolving, and the introduction of 48-volt systems is a testament to the ongoing pursuit of more sustainable and efficient boating solutions. Major manufacturers are developing 48-volt compatible devices, from thrusters and windlasses to air-conditioners and even grills. Companies like Mercury, Dometic, and Vetus are leading the way, ensuring that the necessary components are available to support this new standard.

At Balance Catamarans, we are proud to be at the cutting edge of these advancements, offering our customers the latest in boating technology. Our 48-volt systems not only enhance the efficiency and performance of our catamarans but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for marine travel.

Conclusion

The transition to 48-volt systems represents a significant milestone in marine engineering. By embracing this technology, Balance Catamarans continues to lead the way in innovation, offering our customers state-of-the-art solutions that meet the demands of modern boating while reducing our environmental footprint. As we sail towards a more sustainable future, the 48-volt revolution is just the beginning.

The post Embracing the Future: The 48-Volt Revolution in Balance Catamarans appeared first on Balance Catamarans .

Carbon Cross, Carbon Cross + and Carbon XP

Bianca — Mon, 13 Feb 2023 08:48:24 +0000

Check out Phoenix’s distinctive look above. Have you seen this on other Balance hulls? Wonder what it’s all about?

Every Balance 526, 580 and 750 are hand-laminated and vacuum-bagged with closed cell foam core in full epoxy construction. Our 442 and 482s are also hand laminated and vacuum bagged with closed cell foam cores, using a combination of polyester inner-skin resin and vinylester outer-skin resin.

Because we use carbon in the high load areas of all our cats we call them Carbon Cross. On the catamarans we build with additional carbon enhancements (such as appendages, coach tops, flooring, etc.) we call them Carbon Cross +. On our 526 and larger models we also offer our hulls and decks in full carbon construction, our Carbon XP models.

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